BC Wheelchair Basketball Society

The BC Wheelchair Basketball Society (BCWBS) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and developing wheelchair basketball throughout British Columbia. Established in 1983 and officially registered as a charity with the Canada Revenue Agency since 1985, BCWBS provides opportunities for participation, recreation, competition, and excellence in wheelchair basketball across the province[3][5].

Mission and Vision

BCWBS's mission is to inspire inclusion, participation, and excellence through wheelchair basketball. The organization firmly believes that everyone, regardless of physical ability, should have the opportunity to be included in the sport. They aim to foster inclusive communities by bringing together families and helping individuals with disabilities lead active lives through sport[5].

Programs and Activities

BCWBS offers a variety of programs catering to people of all ages and skill levels, including those with or without disabilities. Their flagship "Let's Play" program creates an environment where children with mobility limitations can engage in sport, make friends, and develop their talents. The organization supplies facilities, training, and equipment for hundreds of athletes province-wide, supporting participants at all competitive levels, from grassroots to elite athletes[1][2][5].

They also collaborate with the BC Basketball Officials Association to ensure professional officiating standards for games. BCWBS has hosted major sporting events, notably the 2018 Canadian Women’s Wheelchair Basketball Championships, enhancing the visibility and profile of the sport locally and nationally[5].

Impact and Community Engagement

Through its programs and events, BCWBS helps promote physical and mental fitness, social interaction, and self-expression among participants. The society strongly advocates for a sport environment free from harassment, abuse, and discrimination[1]. Their activities reach across all health authorities in British Columbia, including Vancouver Coastal, Fraser, Island, Interior, and Northern Health Authorities, thus serving diverse communities throughout the province[4].

Funding and Support

BCWBS relies extensively on the generosity of donors and supporters to sustain its programs and services. Contributions help provide essential resources such as wheelchairs, gym rentals, and training opportunities. Financial support is critical to enabling elite athletes to train and perform at their best and to offer children with disabilities a pathway to competitive sports, including international competition[5].

Summary

• Founded: 1983
• Type: Nonprofit, Registered Charity (886685593RR0001)
• Location: British Columbia, Canada
• Focus: Wheelchair basketball promotion, inclusion, and athlete development
• Programs: Recreational and competitive wheelchair basketball for all ages and skill levels
• Community Impact: Inclusive sports participation, physical and mental fitness, social inclusion
• Funding: Donations supporting equipment, facilities, training, and athlete development

The BC Wheelchair Basketball Society stands as a vital organization fostering the growth and accessibility of wheelchair basketball, enriching the lives of people with disabilities province-wide through sport[1][3][5].

[1] https://www.bcwbs.ca [2] https://www.instagram.com/bcwheelchairbb/ [3] https://www.letsplaybc.com/about-us?page=33 [4] https://www.brainstreams.ca/resources/returning-to-life-sport-exercise/bc-wheelchair-basketball-society/ [5] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/bc-wheelchair-basketball-society/